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///M3 Forum The BMW E46 ///M3 is the M version E46 and puts out an amazing 333 HP and 262 lb-ft of torque at stock specs! There are an amazing amount of modifications for both the coupe and convertible models so read up and get started modifying your cars today!

I seem to be having performance issues with my E46 M3 SMG Convertible.

This is a UK car with 56k on the clock, totally standard apart from CSL SMG flash.

The car feels flat with its power delivery. Especially noticeable in 3rd gear.

This is my second E46 M3 and they were both convertibles. My other one felt somewhat quicker and I am not understanding why.

I have tried a few things, I cleaned the MAF but sadly this cleaning destroyed it so I purchased a new one, I have fitted it but there is no change in performance.

I did an Adaptations reset with INPA, this DID make a big positive difference to the performance but only lasted for approx 50 miles.

This is an image taken from INPA BEFORE doing a Adaptations reset. The car was at idle when this screenshot was taken.

I used DIS to do a VANOS check and these are the results.

DIS says there are no problems with the VANOS.

But to me this engine sounds a lot more noisy than my other M3, I listened to the engine with my ear held up to the handle of a screwdriver while touching the tip of the screwdriver on various locations in the engine bay.

It seems that most of the noise is coming from the fuel rail, the injectors are making most of the noise, they are very ticky!

The car is currently at my local BMW specialist having a new clutch and flywheel fitted. I intend to keep this car for some time so I usually get new clutches fitted to cars that I am going to keep. This will also rule out any issues with possible clutch slippage.

I am also having a few things done while the gearbox is out, springs, sensors etc.

I used AutoEnginuity to log the Lambda sensor voltages and they seem to be fine.

I spoke with my specialist and he worried me by saying it could be the VANOS! But there are no error codes, and DIS says the VANOS is fine.